Curb Appeal - Updating the Front of Your Home

Apartment Therapy

It may seem like a greater priority to keep the interior looking trim and modern, but the presentation of our front yard and porch is just as valuable. It feels wonderful to pull up to a beautiful home that you've been invited to for dinner; it's somewhat of a guarantee that inside you're going to be greeted with the same warmth. 

Giving your home charming curb appeal doesn't have to be expensive; welcoming guests with a beautiful front yard will set the tone for the fellowship that follows. 

Apartment Therapy

Simplify

It is common for people to use their driveway and front porch to collect unwanted items. It's unattractive, and certainly one way to make the neighborhood less inviting. It is easy for items to accumulate. Before you consider planting, or landscaping, move all of the unwanted items out of sight. They are best off in the trunk of your car or hidden behind a fence on the side of your home.

If you have garage doors, pull out doors, or roller doors, keep them closed as often as possible. This is a helpful way to deter the would-be criminals. Theft happens quickly, and can happen in any type of neighborhood.

Cars in the driveway are also less inviting, yet sometimes unavoidable. Move all that can be moved, and keep the front of your home clean and clear. This will provide the best slate for simple landscaping.

Apartment Therapy

Plant Slowly

Front yard landscaping doesn't have to be a quick fix, and taking your time will present great rewards. Often times the front yard is not a space that requires privacy, it's actually the opposite. It's the part of your home to "show off" to everyone. Choose plants that you love, that grow well based on your planting zone and the conditions of the space. If you want a long term, beautiful landscape, choose native plants. These plants tolerate the conditions of your specific climate, and they come in great variety, with various blooms. More color can be added with potted annuals on your front porch. 

Native plants will provide a beautiful front scape, and only continue to improve their beauty as the years pass (with pruning). 

My Domaine

A front yard can be transformed quickly by removing the clutter and starting with a few hardy plants. Eventually the front door can be painted or updated, a stone walk path can be added, and beautiful furniture can be set in place for drinking your afternoon tea. Keep this space tidy and make it beautiful little by little each year. Your guests will always feel welcomed into your home.

*This is a collaborative post.

Hurd & Honey